The Ontario Minor Hockey Association is investing in the 40 minor hockey associations with the Goalie Assist Program for the 2017-18 hockey season.
In an effort to support children who have dreams of becoming a hockey goaltender, the program provides a new set of CCM goalie equipment to associations to loan to five- to seven-year-old players interested in trying out the position.
Each set of equipment will be retained by the local minor hockey associations at the conclusion of the hockey season to loan to players in following years to continue the positive cycle of introducing new goalies to the position.
“We’re proud to give back and re-invest in our associations through a program like Goalie Assist,” said OMHA executive director Ian Taylor.
“Hockey is a late-specialization sport and the Goalie Assist program is a great way to introduce the position to players who may not have otherwise had the opportunity. The equipment gives every player a chance to try being a goaltender without making the financial commitment.”
There were over 170 applications received from all across the OMHA. The OMHA believes this program helps break down some of the barriers that may exist for new goalies, the association states in a press release.
Being a netminder is a very unique position in hockey and requires specific equipment that may not always be readily available.
“A player who wants to be a goalie should not be discouraged for any reason and this program helps alleviate some of those worries,” the OMHA states.
The Goalie Assist Program could be the first time a player is able to become a netminder and find a passion for the position.
